Increasing tow bar angle.

[Triple H]

My current Roadmaster Nighthawk setup has my tow bar connecting to the car 1/4” below the center of my MH receiver which includes an 8” drop receiver. Twice in the last couple weeks I’ve bottomed out on a couple of driveways. Fortunately going 5mph. Both times I could see where it hit on the front part of the tow bar arms (front meaning closest to the MH).

A 6” drop would have the tow bar angle from the car 1 3/4” above the MH receiver center (still within Roadmaster tolerance of +/- 3” but less level than current). My overhang is long but I still think the extra clearance would have avoided both instances as it just barely scraped. But it was enough to make a helluva grinding sound and left decent marks on the tow bar. Any reason not to do this?

[twinboat]

I would do it.

[scbwr]

As long as you stay within the manufacturer's guidelines, I'd try it. Towing a Malibu, we have to be careful to not bottom out. I currently have a 8" drop, but plan to check it to see if I can change to a 7" or 6" drop.

[Dutch Star Don]

On my last two coaches, I added a second receiver under the first. I had a hitch shop weld it on. It lowers the hitch 4" without adding length to the hitch, which is part of the problem. Solves some the drag issue.

[Triple H]

Originally Posted by Dutch Star Don

On my last two coaches, I added a second receiver under the first. I had a hitch shop weld it on. It lowers the hitch 4" without adding length to the hitch, which is part of the problem. Solves some the drag issue.

Attachment 264675

That’s a good idea. Not sure I would be within tolerances but great recommendation.

[Dougsee3]

I would definitely go with the 6" drop if you are inside the 3" up or down of level.

Also consider drilling the drop hitch and tow bar so that they are short as possible but not less or shorter than the tow bar would be with out the drop hitch to the car.
You should possibly be able to get 4 to 8" closer to the motorhome with the tow bar possibly gaining another inch or so clearance in a dip or driveway. I would not recommend the new holes be no closer than a 1 1/2" on center from the old holes. It should also be done on a drill press.